Special Feature: Name Songs — Masterpieces with Names Sung by Artists

MOMOKOKondō Masahiko

MOMOKO

This song was released in 1982 as the B-side to Masahiko Kondō’s seventh single, “High-Teen Boogie.” Used as an insert song in the Toho film “High-Teen Boogie,” it features lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Tatsuro Yamashita.

The song is woven with straightforward words of love.

ErikaKOKIA

KOKIA – Erika

This song is included on KOKIA’s original album “songbird” and was released in 1999.

It’s a piece that expresses feelings for a close friend named Erika.

Filled with happy memories and the dreams they talked about, it’s a gentle song for a best friend that gives the strength to keep moving forward while thinking of each other, even when they’re apart.

my nameback number

back number – My Name (full)

This is a gem of a medium-tempo ballad that portrays a profound form of love in which hearts connect simply by calling each other’s names.

Set to the gentle melodies woven by back number, it warmly sings of gratitude and devoted feelings toward someone precious.

Meeting someone who accepts your weaknesses and wounds, and the desire to give them everything—these emotions make for a bittersweet yet heartwarming song that leaves a deep impression.

Released as a single in May 2016 and included on the album “Encore,” this track was written as the theme song for the film “Wolf Girl and Black Prince.” It reached No.

6 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and earned Gold Disc certification, becoming a popular hit.

It’s a heartwarming love song you’ll want to listen to while thinking of someone important to you, recommended for moments when you want to renew your gratitude for irreplaceable people—be they a partner, a friend, or family.

NameHanbureddāzu

Humbreaders “Name” Music Video

A heartwarming song that portrays affection for a loved one.

Included on Humbreaders’ album “Guitar,” released in November 2021, this track is notable for its refreshing melody that tenderly embraces the difficulty of calling someone by name and the singer’s own clumsiness.

While taking the long way around, the protagonist’s search for a bond with someone special is powerfully expressed through a driving sound.

Featured as the ending theme for the TV anime “Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai,” its music video also stands out for its innovative fusion with live painting.

It’s the perfect song for those who want to stay true to themselves while honestly expressing their feelings.

JulianPurinsesu Purinsesu

Princess Princess 'Julian'

This is a ballad that sings of a bittersweet, aching love.

Released by Princess Princess in November 1990, this gem of a song delivers a cathartic performance of unfulfilled feelings, vividly portraying the complex emotions toward someone precious who is slipping away.

With lyrics by Kanako Nakayama and music by Kaori Okui, it drew attention as the band’s first ballad single and was also featured in a commercial for Citizen’s Lighthouse.

It reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and ranked 13th on the 1991 year-end chart.

For anyone experiencing the pangs of unrequited love or harboring deep feelings for someone important, this song will surely offer gentle solace.

I’ll call your name.rakkuraifu

LACCO TOWER / I'll Call Your Name [Music Video] (TV Anime “Bungo Stray Dogs” Ending Theme)

This is a heartwarming song that gently sings about the importance of human connection.

Crafted in May 2016 by Luck Life, a four-piece rock band from Osaka, the story brims with the comfort found in calling someone by name and the joy of mutually recognizing each other’s presence.

With a melodious sound and carefully chosen words, the piece reaches out to accompany our everyday lives.

It was also selected as the ending theme for the anime “Bungo Stray Dogs,” resonating with many listeners.

A gem of a medium-tempo ballad, it’s the kind of song you’ll want to hear while thinking of someone dear.

Sergio EchigoRin to shite Shigure

Sergio Echigo

While many people are drawn to songs that weave in personal names, this release from Ling tosite sigure presents a unique world by using the name of well-known soccer commentator Sergio Echigo as its title.

Released in July 2006 as a track on the album “Feeling your UFO,” the song captivates with poetic imagery born from abstract lyrics and intense guitar riffs.

Dusk-lit landscapes, regrets about the past, and a sense of loss are vividly portrayed through the twin vocals of TK and 345.